Washington Trails
Association
Trails for everyone, forever
Washington Trails
AssociationTrails for everyone, forever
Photos aren't just happy memories — they're a way of helping trails across the state. By Erika Haugen-Goodman
Images hold immense power. They can transport us to far away places, allow us to dream, and let us see the world through different perspectives and times. The art of photography has quite literally helped shift opinions on matters both global and local, and even Washington’s beautiful landscapes have benefited from photography’s awe-inspiring capability. In the 1970s, then-Washington Governor Dan Evans took a book containing photographs of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness to a meeting with President Ford. The images within so captivated the president that after a single meeting, he signed a bill to protect the rugged landscape we still enjoy.
But not every photograph has to influence presidents to make an impact. Maybe all they need to do is inspire someone to step outside and try hiking, or consider how they too might protect the places we love to hike in. And that simple aim is why the Northwest Exposure Photo Contest is so special. It provides a way for hikers just like you to share your perspectives, your joys and your favorite moments outdoors with others. Whether your images inspire someone to lace up their boots for the first time or tackle a new challenge on a trail they’ve never visited, your photographs can hold the same sort of power that awed President Ford.
Photos entered in the Northwest Exposure Photo Contest reach far and wide. They might grace the cover of Washington Trails magazine or showcase the beauty of a particular trail or region. They can brighten someone’s day on our social media channels, or in some cases, they might even offer a way to elicit emotions — and a desire to protect wild places — from a legislator. WTA’s work in protecting wild places relies on imagery that can tell a powerful story and connect emotionally to the viewer. From emails and our Trail Action Network alerts to in-person meetings with legislators, your photographs put a focus on the place, not just an idea. That’s the power and beauty of WTA’s photo contest and the photographs that you enter.
Your photos can help inspire hikers, trail advocates and even legislators to take action for trails. Photo by Jonathan Fearer
Whether or not your photograph is chosen as a winner, you’re helping WTA and trails themselves across the state. Not all of us have the power to sign bills or make laws to protect wild spaces, but as hikers, we see the beauty of these wild spaces firsthand and it’s our passion that inspires those who do. We know how important it is to preserve these spaces. So even if we influence just one person to care for the trails we love to hike, your images hold the same power as that book of photographs that was carried to the White House.
Trailscapes: Winding trails and the incredible landscapes they take you through. Photos from your local park or green space are encouraged!
Hikers in Action: In camp or on trail, capture the experience of people enjoying the outdoors.
Trail Family: Show us the faces of the people you love to hike with.
Flora and Fauna: Wildlife, woods, wildflowers and all things furry.
Instagram: Show us how you hike by following @washingtontrails and using the hashtag #nwexposure2024 through Oct. 6.
NEW: Trails Next Door: Show us your beloved trails in your backyard. We’d love to see the trails close to your heart and home.
